Carotid Ultrasound
A carotid ultrasound, also known as a doppler ultrasound, is a painless and harmless test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of the major arteries in your neck. These two major arteries in your neck are vital as they deliver blood from your heart to your brain. This test is typically performed to look for blocked or narrowed arteries which can result in a stroke.
Who Needs This Test
Your doctor may recommend this test to you if you have medical conditions that increase your risk for a stroke including:
- High Blood Pressure
- Diabetes
- High Cholesterol
- Family history of strokes or heart attacks
- Abnormalities or abnormal sounds found by your doctor
- Coronary artery disease
How to Prepare for the Test
You should wear a comfortable shirt with no collar or an open collar. Don't wear a necklace or dangling earrings that could get in the way of the test. Other than what you wear, there are no dietary or other restrictions to prepare for the test as it is non-invasive.